Neurodiversity

Neurodiversity is all about understanding different kinds of minds. Fundamental to this concept is that differences in how people think, feel and behave do not reflect deficits that need to be fixed, but natural variation between people which should not be pathologized. The approach to our work on neurodiversity at Durham is largely about understanding neurodivergence in context; this includes strengths, difficulties, and the facilitators and barriers of thriving that many neurodivergent people experience.  For example, we conduct internationally leading research on mental health and well-being, education and school life, relationships and inter-personal victimisation, stigma and dehumanisation, masking, eating behaviours, and neurocognitive mechanisms underlying social and sensory experiences for neurodivergent people. A core pillar of our work on neurodiversity is focused on education. For example, neurodiversity and school life, school distress and attendance, learning difficulties in reading and maths, and inclusion and belonging at school.  

Fundamental to our approach is working with neurodivergent children, young people and adults to use participatory action research methods to ensure that our research is co-designed with, and meaningful and impactful for the neurodivergent community. We also have a strong focus on the translation of our research evidence to practice. For example, Dr Amy Pearson and Dr Monique Botha worked with fellow autistic community members to co-develop a guide to healthy relationships for autistic adolescents and adults after conducting research on how to support autistic people who have experienced intimate violence. Our Triple-A training and support package for educators, developed by Profs Mary Hanley and Debbie Riby, uses our research evidence to change understanding and practice of attention, sensory arousal and anxiety needs for neurodivergent pupils in schools.

The conduit for all of this work is the Centre for Neurodiversity and Development – a research centre led by members of the Developmental Science group that seeks to bring people together to do research that improves society and the lives of neurodivergent people. The Centre draws in multi-disciplinary insights to neurodiversity (e.g. from Sports and Exercise Science, Computer Science, Sociology and Education) and provides a crucial platform through which we engage with a wide range of non-academic partners, groups and organisations. Much of our public engagement work on neurodiversity is conducted through the Centre. For more information see here.  

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